Staff Recomendations
From Kathy Paisley
Check out the A.D. Chronicles series in the Sheridan Library. We now have the first eight in this series by Brock and Bodie Thoene. These books are fascinating reading whether or not you are a historical fiction buff. Each book in this series transports readers back in time to first century A.D to the most critical events in the history of the world. Each book engages you in the unique perspective of various characters of the Gospel stories. Readers get a feel for what it might have been like for the Jews living under Roman rule from the time prior to Christ’s birth as well as during his three years of ministry. Like many in these stories who were longing for the promised Messiah, for his healing touch and words of hope, I have discovered that same longing in my soul. These books are my favorites and have broadened my understanding of both Old and New Testament.
First Light, Second Touch, Third Watch, Fourth Dawn, Fifth Seal, Sixth Covenant, Seventh Day and Eighth Shepherd by Brock and Bodie Thoene.
From Pastor Jeremy
Books and movies
Anything by C.S. Lewis – both fiction and non-fiction selections are good. The Chronicles of Narnia movie series are also good. Parents check the ratings – some are PG-13. These writings explore the human condition – how sin is present in our world, but how hope, light and life ultimately prevail.
From Pastor Greg
Books
Brian MacLaren has published a myriad of books reflecting on what it means to be a Christian in today’s world. Pastor Greg’s first choice of MacLaren’s books is: A New Kind of Christian.
Movies
Cast Away, Big Fish, The Ultimate Gift
From Pastor John
The Bible - This should go without saying, but a surprising number of people have never read the Bible from cover to cover. Find a translation that is easy for you to read, and find a plan to read it. There are plenty of good Bible reading plans out there that you can use to help read through the Bible in a systematic way. This is the story of God's self-revelation to the world, so be sure to read the Bible itself, not just books about the Bible.
Unchristian - This book by the Barna group looks at what non-Christians think are the primary characteristics of Christians. Unfortunately, the body of Christ has become more known for what we are against than what we are for. This book will challenge you to consider how you interact with friends and co-workers so that you are more pro-Christ and less anti whatever.
The Present Future - Written by Reggie McNeal this is one of my favorite books. I could not agree more with the challenges that Reggie states the church must face if we are going to survive. This book helps challenge each of us to move beyond "Churchianity" and start practicing Christianity.
When Invisible Children Sing - This book by Dr. Chi Huang tells the story of some of the children we worked with in Bolivia. It is a quick read and helps you immerse yourself in the story of Dr. Huang's first visit to Bolivia and his experience working with children of the streets. Be prepared to have your heart captured and broken by these children and their stories.
I have some reviews of other books on my personal website. Feel free to check it out at http://eggen4jc.googlepages.com/
From Pastor Rhonda
Bible Selections
There are a variety of Bible translations that exist out there on the publishing market. I have listed a few recommendations for different reader needs.
The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books
By Wayne A. Meeks, Jouette M. Bassler
Contributor Wayne A. Meeks
Published by HarperCollins, 1993
ISBN 0060655267, 9780060655266
This Bible is great for adults who want to read the Biblical text with an excellent historical commentary. Over 60 historical Biblical scholars contributed to this work. This is a good purchase for anyone who is studying the Bible on a regular basis
The Renouvare Spiritual Formation Bible
Editor, Richard J. foster
Published by Harper Collins, 2005
ISBN 0-06-067108-4
This Bible is great for young adults on up who want to read the Bible and reflect on how it impacts their daily lives. There are devotional sections that introduce the different books and stories. There is a spiritual discipline section that offers a way of living out the scripture in meaningful and life-giving ways. Excellent resource for Sojourner’s groups or personal devotion.
Practical living Christianity
Get A Life!
By Reggie McNeal
Published by B & H Publishing Group
ISBN: 978-0-8054-4299-1
Our congregation read this book during our October 2008 worship series. It’s a practical application book to help aid the reader in finding purpose for their life, ordering their time around their passion and gifts, and making space for what really matters to them on a daily basis. Reggie writes as a person of deep Christian conviction with a loving, encouraging heart.
